Contraception
While muggles commonly use contraception such as birth control pills, implants, and IUDs, wizarding contraception differs in that the responsibility is not predominately on women. Many forms of birth control are tailored to the individual, while others use standard charms.
Sexually transmitted diseases and infections in the wizarding world are similar to those of the muggles, although the variety of symptoms are often more bizarre as well as more unpleasant. Only condoms and charms provide effectual protection against STDs/STIs.
Condoms
Condoms in wizarding society function as they do in the muggle realm. They are utilised to protect against pregnancy and STIs, although their rate of effectiveness for the former is 99.9% (as opposed to muggle ones which are 98%). Magical condoms today will turn grey and wilt if they have expired or been tampered with. There are a variety of brands commonly sold in tuck shops, potioneers, bars and nightclubs. They are one of the most widely used forms of contraception and protection.
Wizarding condoms generally come in a wide range of effects to accommodate different preferences. These include but are not restricted to lubricated, colour-changing, sparkling, Bertie Bott's flavoured, ribbed, vibrating, and so on. Aphrodite's Letters are a popular brand of condoms endorsed by author Rascal Rosier. Some establishments, such as Lapin, provide free condoms over the bar to encourage safe sex amongst their patrons.
A minor brand called Snuggies stock warming condoms for 'engagements with the cold companion'. Aimed at the niche market of vampires and their blooded companions, the brand intermittently runs a series of wireless adverts with a jingle - the lyrics of which include 'warm and tingly for your dingly'.
Potions
Potions function much in the way that birth pills do in the muggle realm. Witches must regularly consume her birth control potion on a monthly basis (preferably at exact intervals of 30 days) to prevent pregnancy as well as help regular her menstruation cycle. The effectiveness of such potions depend entirely on the skill of its brewer(s). Store-bought potions are generally very effective - it is not advised to brew one's own unless one is a very skilled potioneer.
Jewellery
Utilised by either witches or wizards. Contraception Jewellery come in the form of enchanted non-piercing jewellery - such as pendants, rings, bracelets - and piercing jewellery such as naval rings, genital piercings, micro-dermal implants.
Non-piercing jewellery must be entirely replaced at intervals of three to six months (depending on its make and material). They also run the risk of coming loose or getting lost in a moment of passion. Some choose to have their wedding rings enchanted for this purpose and must occasionally have the ring re-enchanted, although this can have depreciating effects on the gold.
Piercing jewellery is most effective and easier to re-enchant when it is located closer to one's reproductive organs. As they are attached to the flesh of their user, it is preferable and more effectual than non-piercing counterparts. Micro-dermal implants tend to migrate and will need to be re-pierced every half-year to year. The Inkwell runs a service for this form of contraception.
Tattoos
Utilised by either witches or wizards. The effectiveness of tattoos, much like potions, depends on the skill of the person who has inked you. They are considered to have a 98 to 99.9% rate of effectiveness if given by a tattoo artist who is experienced and proficient at the art. As enchanted tattoos are permanent (removal is painful and may leave scars), it is a form of contraception that might not be for everyone. These tattoos need to be re-enchanted and inked every year or two depending on where you have been originally inked.
This is another service provided by the tattoo parlour The Inkwell.
Charms
While there are spells to prevent pregnancy and STIs, they can be difficult to cast in the heat of the moment. These charms are considered especially precarious if one does not practice good wandwork. They are not frequently used for casual sex or one night stands, for which condoms are a safer alternative that requires less patience.
